Berns was the subject of an HBO documentary, "Life According to Sam." The exposure brought greater recognition to the condition, which causes musculoskeletal degeneration, cardiovascular problems and other symptoms associated with aging.

One of those he inspired was New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.

The town's first artificial turf playing field is scheduled for completion in the fall.

Precocious wisdom: Remembering life of Sam Berns

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Sam Berns was a teenager whose battle with a rare genetic condition that accelerates the aging process became the subject of an HBO documentary.